On April 25, she was climbing Mount Johnson in Denai National Park when she fell over 1,000 feet to her death. Her climbing partner, Melissa Orzechowski. was critically injured in the same accident.
Former DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos, wrote that he was "devastated by this news." "Robbi was such an incredible person. A pillar of strength," Seggos wrote. "Always there for the most difficult NYSDEC rescues and crises, and a tremendous leader for LGBTQIA+ rights. I feel fortunate to have known her."
DEC Interim Commissioner, Sean Mahar, wrote "Over her 25-year career with DEC, Ranger Mecus demonstrated an unparalleled passion for protecting the environment and New Yorkers."
